When you unbox that shiny new iPhone or sleek MacBook, you’re probably eager to dive right in and start exploring. But before you get too carried away, there’s something you should know: those pre-installed apps that come with your device might not be as innocent as they seem. A startling new study by researchers Amel Bourdoucen and Janne Lindqvist from Aalto University in Finland is pulling back the curtain on the privacy implications of Apple’s default apps like Safari, Siri, iMessage, and Find My.
What they discovered is enough to make even the most dedicated Apple fan think twice.
Let’s start with the basics. When you first set up your iPhone or MacBook, you’re greeted by a friendly setup wizard that guides you through enabling various features and apps. Things like Siri, Apple’s helpful virtual assistant, or Find My, a handy tool for locating lost devices. Seems harmless enough, right?
Not so fast. The researchers found that the privacy settings for these default apps are often misleading or downright confusing. Take Siri, for example. When prompted during setup, you can choose to enable Siri or “Set Up Later in Settings.” You might reasonably assume that means Siri is off until you manually turn it on. But in reality, Siri is still collecting data from your apps even when disabled. It’s like a nosy neighbor who keeps peeking through your blinds even after you’ve asked them to stop.
And it’s not just Siri. The study revealed that many of the privacy settings for default apps are scattered across multiple menus, often in places you wouldn’t think to look. Some settings aren’t even mentioned in Apple’s official documentation. It’s like playing a frustrating game of hide-and-seek with your own personal data.
But what exactly are these apps collecting, you might wonder? The researchers compiled a list, and it’s enough to make your head spin. Safari, Apple’s default web browser, can scoop up your IP address, browsing history, and even sensitive info like your payment methods. Siri hoards data from your contacts, your music preferences, and the names of your devices. iMessage and FaceTime can access things like your call logs and the apps you use. The list goes on and on.
Now, you might be thinking, “Okay, but I can just go into my settings and turn all this off, right?” Well, it’s not quite that simple. The study found that even when users thought they had disabled data sharing for an app, their information was still being collected behind the scenes. It’s like trying to break up with a clingy ex who just won’t take the hint.
Source: https://studyfinds.org/iphone-tracking-you-apple-apps-privacy/